Nikon 1 J5 vs Samsung NX3000

Let's look more closely at the Nikon 1 J5 versus Samsung NX3000, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by rivals Nikon and Samsung. The sensor resolution of the 1 J5 (21MP) and the NX3000 (20MP) is pretty similar but the 1 J5 (1") and NX3000 (APS-C) boast totally different sensor sizes.

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The 1 J5 was revealed 11 months after the NX3000 and they are of a similar generation. Both cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before we go straight to a complete comparison, here is a concise highlight of how the 1 J5 grades versus the NX3000 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon 1 J5 and Samsung NX3000. The full galleries are provided at Nikon 1 J5 Gallery and Samsung NX3000 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to carry around your camera often, you will need to think about its weight and size. The Nikon 1 J5 provides outside dimensions of 98mm x 60mm x 32mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 231 grams (0.51 lbs) whilst the Samsung NX3000 has specifications of 117mm x 66mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.6" x 1.5") along with a weight of 230 grams (0.51 lbs).

See the Nikon 1 J5 versus Samsung NX3000 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you select at the time. Following is a front view dimension comparison of the 1 J5 compared to the NX3000.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the 1 J5 and NX3000 is 91 and 89 respectively.

Often, it can be hard to envision the difference between sensor sizes purely by reading specs. The image below should offer you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the 1 J5 and NX3000.

As you can plainly see, each of these cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The 1 J5 using its tinier sensor will make achieving shallower DOF more challenging and the Nikon 1 J5 will offer more detail because of its extra 1MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop photographs more aggressively. The younger 1 J5 is going to have a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.